[ our yoga students ]

I had been taking yoga for about six months. After my first class with Perri Institute teacher Callie Ritter, I figured out I was lacking in my foundations. Her yoga class builds you from the ground up and she makes sure that students understand and develop strong background knowledge of yoga principles. Her classes are the perfect combination of physical and mental challenge, as well as relaxation. This allows me to do a sort of mental retooling, enabling me to focus better, while at the same time being relaxed - something that six months ago, I never thought could be possible.

Before I started taking TaraMarie's class in 2007, I had practiced yoga for 8 years. I have been studying exclusively with TaraMarie because I find her teaching exceptional. Her classes are consistently motivational. And while each class must accommodate a variety of levels, she always manages to incorporate new challenges for advanced students, while providing basic instruction to new practitioners.

TaraMarie’s yoga instruction is at once relaxing and invigorating, mindful and creative, empowering and inspiring. I had no idea what to expect from her Reiki work, but should have known it would be all that and more. Her approachable way gave me an introduction into a new and fascinating practice that I hope to return to time and time again.

TaraMarie gave me the tools to bring my yoga practice to all facets of my life. Whether I'm navigating sun salutations, work induced stress or health crises, her guidance as a yoga teacher has been invaluable.

I walked into TaraMarie's class at a local gym as a near novice and knew right away that I'd met my teacher. I hired her for a series of one-on-one sessions to help me get started on the right foot with my yoga practice. The experience was invaluable and worth every penny. I recommend her to all my friends who want to bring real depth and understanding to their practice.

Each practice session is a journey. We move with unrushed awareness in each asana. I like the focus on breathing and on remaining calm and present. I am refreshed and energized after I practice and that is what keeps me coming back.

Perri Institute yoga classes work well for me because they are calm and pleasant, but always challenging. I like the way the teachers give options for the postures, accommodating my level of experience or just the way my body might feel on any particular day. I appreciate being encouraged to experiment, for example to try using a yoga block in a posture just to see how it changes my body’s alignment, or to attempt a difficult posture and see how far I can get.

I had stopped taking yoga because the classes were too challenging for me with my injuries. TaraMarie Perri and Alice Chapman invited me into their classes with this in mind. They were able to help me modify poses to benefit my specific needs. I have been able to continue enjoying yoga while injured, thanks to them.

[ our graduates ]

As someone who had studied yoga asana for years, I found something so refreshing from TaraMarie's yoga class-- an honest and authentic care for yoga beyond the physical practice. Desiring to know how to bring a meditation practice into my life, I was able to develop an independent study with TaraMarie that challenged investigation into the corners of my life that needed better balance of mindfulness and loving kindness. TaraMarie's encouragement and gentle guidance revealed "a-ha!" moments for personal growth, with patience and strong tenderness. She continues to be a great mentor and dear friend.

Through the Perri Institute Yoga and Mind/Body Foundation Course, my yoga practice has begun to influence all aspects of my life in a profound way. I've unlocked parts of my physicality and spirituality that I never knew existed, and have deepened my understanding of and my connection to my psychological and emotional states. TaraMarie's structure places the unique path of each individual at its core, but also provides a community of like-minded individuals with a space to grow, share experiences, and refine their practice together.

When I decided that I wanted to do the Perri Institute Mind Body Dancer Teacher Training Program, I was experiencing a time of transition in my life, education, and career path. I thought of the course as a way to approach my dance education from the refreshing, empowering perspective of yoga. I gained extensive knowledge about the anatomy of the human body and how it functions in the yoga practice, dance technique, and everyday life. I discovered a deeper awareness of those around me. I developed a sophisticated pedagogical vocabulary that would not only create the backbone of my yoga teaching but would assist me in all of my teaching endeavors. I gained a stronger sense of self, nurturing a renewed respect for my mind, body and spirit. I learned so much from TaraMarie as well as the many guest lecturers she brought in who taught us about meditation, anatomy and physiology, and the art of breathing. The training course was an experience that helped guide me through a huge transition in my life and at the same time taught me more about myself and the yoga practice than I ever could have imagined.

The Mind Body Dancer training program is hand-tailored to the needs of 21st century dancers who want to become one with an authentic yoga practice; this union creates cutting-edge teachers with an aim to keep the history of yoga alive!

The skills TaraMarie instills in her teachers through the Perri Institute training programs are completely transferable to any subject. The qualities of a good teacher never change, regardless of the subject matter: patience, understanding, compassion, and creative thinking. I use these qualities that I developed with TaraMarie in the training on an everyday basis. At work, I communicate more effectively with clients and colleagues while learning how to negotiate with others. In my artistic life, I can approach creativity from new and interesting angles. In my personal life, I have learned to be more patient with myself while I navigate through my own path's terrain. I certainly learned to be a good yoga teacher during the training, but I received far more than I bargained for. Training as a yoga teacher under TaraMarie Perri is a great gift to give to yourself – one which will certainly serve you for a lifetime.

Deciding to join the Perri Institute teaching community is one of the best things I have done; it has changed my life in so many ways. The opportunity to study intensely with TaraMarie Perri is a gift in and of itself; having access to her vast breadth of knowledge has changed my understanding of the body. But this training course offers so much more than the study of the physical and mental aspects of Yoga. It offers each student the opportunity to become part of an incredible community of like-minded artists and teachers that do amazing work every day. The training fosters informed, mindful, inspired teachers. It is the best of the best.

For me, the Perri Institute training was a personal, professional, and physical journey that remained thoughtful and illuminating every step of the way. I relished the opportunity to explore, as well as the value that was given to creativity. The program completely transformed my yoga practice and reshaped my thinking about the work of a teacher.

In the uncertain world that follows a degree in dance, the knowledge, technical edge, and financial support that comes from a Mind Body Dancer certification is indispensable. Teaching TaraMarie’s curriculum every week has been a joy and a constant reminder of what makes all the difference in a performing arts career; commitment, focus, and compassion for oneself.

The Perri Institute Foundation Course was intense but productive. I enjoyed every moment of it and truly love the discipline of the yoga practice. TaraMarie assisted and guided us throughout the training and we discovered our unique qualities as teachers. We were always encouraged to be ourselves and be genuine. Though the learning process of yoga is lifelong, TaraMarie and her special guest lecturers have opened my heart and given me a strong foundation to have confidence as a new yoga teacher.

TaraMarie is unique in that her vast knowledge and well-rounded understanding of yoga, anatomy, and movement are all equally top-notch. She consistently demonstrates limitless compassion and generosity. TaraMarie is articulate, supportive, and fully attentive to each individual in the class. She brought in highly accomplished guest lecturers on a variety of subjects to supplement our training.

TaraMarie put incredible care into planning all aspects of the training. Her constant support and generosity of spirit taught through example the qualities of a great yoga teacher. She anticipated the ebb and flow of contrasting emotions that come with learning to teach, and encouraged us to see how our yoga practice could help us find balanced confidence. She mindfully cultivated our personal strengths and supported our diverse interests to create unique and honest teachers.

[ our one-to-one clients ]

When I discovered I was pregnant TaraMarie conscientiously adapted the focus of our individual sessions to my new condition. In private sessions we practiced modifications that allowed me to safely continue attending class. Being able to continue my yoga practice throughout the nine months of my pregnancy allowed me to continue to build strength, while easing the inevitable aches and pains that come with carrying a belly of extra weight. I am also grateful for the time we spent exploring guided breathing techniques. They trained me for the focus that took me through labor and delivery!

TaraMarie’s yoga instruction is at once relaxing and invigorating, mindful and creative, empowering and inspiring. I had no idea what to expect from her Reiki work, but should have known it would be all that and more. Her approachable way gave me an introduction into a new and fascinating practice that I hope to return to time and time again.

TaraMarie did two Reiki sessions on me, which calmed an overexcited mind and an extremely nervous stomach. Previously, I had had a lot of bodywork, but never Reiki. I immediately felt the presence of a gentle, sensitive, and very skilled practitioner. I was most grateful for her work and look forward to other opportunities to receive her help.

TaraMarie gave me the tools to bring my yoga practice to all facets of my life. Whether I'm navigating sun salutations, work induced stress or health crises, her guidance as a yoga teacher has been invaluable.

I walked into TaraMarie's class at a local gym as a near novice and knew right away that I'd met my teacher. I hired her for a series of one-on-one sessions to help me get started on the right foot with my yoga practice. The experience was invaluable and worth every penny. I recommend her to all my friends who want to bring real depth and understanding to their practice.

In our initial intake session, TaraMarie demonstrated a compassionate elegance, putting me at great ease, while gathering the information she needed to guide me toward wellness. In our conversation it became clear that I was completely exhausted, and that with all of the "doing" there was little to no "self care". During our next session, we did a Reiki healing treatment that was extraordinary. Under TaraMarie's talented and skillful care, I went into a deep peaceful meditation while she re-balanced my energy. The experience was profound - shifting me from exhaustion towarda physical, mental and spiritual rebalancing that left me feeling both rested and mindful of the importance of self care. I look forward to this journey with TaraMarie's guidance and wisdom. It is clear that she is as naturally gifted, as she is masterfully trained.

I needed a meditation guide. I called TaraMarie and it became clear from our first phone call that I signed up for something that would change my life. With her teachings, guidance, and endless encouragement I’ve been able to discover and unlock hidden parts of myself. Throughout our sessions, I’ve grown to form the most loving friendship with myself which was something I didn’t even know I was looking for. She helped me generate clarity and compassion towards myself in a learning environment that felt safe, warm, and light-hearted. I am so thankful that I made the decision and commitment to learn and embrace the practice of meditation in my everyday life, and I am blessed to call TaraMarie my teacher.

[ mind body dancer students ]

Mind Body Dancer Yoga with Perri Institute teacher Christen Weimer has impacted my life off the mat in many ways. It has helped me focus more easily. Yoga has also allowed me to find an inner sense of peace and tranquility. I have become a more mindful dancer and person thanks to my yoga practice.

TaraMarie's Mind Body Dancer® classes are both information-packed and inspirational; an absolute necessity for any dancer. Her balance of athleticism, relaxation, and restoration within a single class provides remarkable perspective on one's own body and the world around them. I highly recommend TaraMarie's work.

In the ten months that I have been practicing Mind Body Dancer®, I have noticed a phenomenal transformation in both my yoga and my dance practices. From connecting breath to the movement, to injury prevention and management, this practice has taught me so much about how to use my body and unlock strengths of which I was previously unaware. I am extremely thankful for the individual care and support that TaraMarie gives to everyone. I look forward to seeing this technique become a part of every dancer’s practice.

When I came to TaraMarie's class I was one of those dancer's who took technique classes and thought that was all I needed. Now looking back I can't believe I ever could think that. I am hyper-mobile. TaraMarie taught me how to stand on my legs and control my movement; it has been the biggest challenge. I have had so many breakthroughs about my technique in her classes. She has also helped me through numerous injuries, mentally and physically. Sometimes during a performance season things can get kind of crazy. During those times TaraMarie's classes really helped to center and focus me. Training with TaraMarie in her Mind Body Dancer® yoga classes for the past three years has had a major positive impact on both my dancing and me as a person.

TaraMarie has developed a teaching and career that will have lasting impact on movement, dance, yoga, and somatic practice… She has brought an original vision to create what she calls, Mind Body Dancer®. I have taken her yoga class many times. It is rigorous, erudite and beautiful. Dance, yoga and somatic work become three tributaries that flow into a single experience of mind, heart and body. As a ballet teacher, I admire and appreciate how clearly and skillfully she creates themes that develop through the class. It becomes a yoga and dance/movement experience. Considering the lineage of Mabel Todd, Lulu Sweigard, and Irene Dowd, it is easy to imagine that the originality and impact of her ideas will place her among that august company.

TaraMarie has developed a teaching and career that will have lasting impact on movement, dance, yoga, and somatic practice… She has brought an original vision to create what she calls, Mind Body Dancer®. I have taken her yoga class many times. It is rigorous, erudite and beautiful. Dance, yoga and somatic work become three tributaries that flow into a single experience of mind, heart and body. As a ballet teacher, I admire and appreciate how clearly and skillfully she creates themes that develop through the class. It becomes a yoga and dance/movement experience. Considering the lineage of Mabel Todd, Lulu Sweigard, and Irene Dowd, it is easy to imagine that the originality and impact of her ideas will place her among that august company.

Perri teaches mindful yogic practice as core and complement to all forms of movement. Her focus on ‘presence of mind’ in all physical action has been a revelation to our students. Other benefits of her class include increased strength, stamina, and improved alignment. Perri’s Mind Body Dancer® program has become an invaluable component of our curriculum. TaraMarie is an outstanding educator, mentor, and practitioner of yoga.

TaraMarie Perri has proved to be an outstanding teacher of the yoga tradition. Her class is thorough, intelligent, and sensitive. My student body is delighted with the information and format of her classes as well as her generous, kind manner in relaying the material.

All of the students who worked with TaraMarie responded to her work, manner and methods of teaching with great enthusiasm. A number of students who have worked with her have found the experience fundamental in introducing new areas of knowledge which have, in turn informed and guided their future research interests. All have expressed a strong desire to work with her again. TaraMarie is a highly skilled, innovative and independent practitioner who brings great commitment, vision and dexterity.

We specialize in working with scholar-artists who are making creative innovations in both their own artistic discipline and in the ways in which they engage and mentor arts students who are in the beginning of their careers. During her preparation, delivery and feedback to the students TaraMarie demonstrated her ability as an excellent teacher and innovative practitioner. She is a highly skilled, intelligent and articulate young woman who is making an original contribution to her field.